UAE: Ambassador Tirmizi welcomes Bangladesh’s new top envoy at Pakistan House
Abu Dhabi meeting follows Consuls General discussions in Dubai earlier this week
Abu Dhabi saw an important diplomatic engagement on Thursday as Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, Pakistan’s Ambassador to the UAE, hosted Tareq Ahmed, Bangladesh's newly appointed Ambassador, at the Pakistan House.
The meeting reflected a renewed commitment to fostering bilateral ties between the two South Asian nations.
Key discussions included enhancing trade and investment opportunities, resuming direct flights between Islamabad, Karachi, and Dhaka, and strengthening people-to-people connections.
“Trade is the cornerstone of regional growth, and our collaboration can unlock vast opportunities for both nations,” Ambassador Tirmizi stated, highlighting the potential for economic cooperation.
Ambassador Tareq reaffirmed Bangladesh’s dedication to improving relations, emphasising the importance of sustained dialogue to address shared challenges and achieve mutual prosperity.
Consuls General meet in Dubai
Earlier this week, a significant meeting took place in Dubai between Hussain Muhammad, Pakistan’s Consul General, and Md. Rashedujjaman, Bangladesh’s Consul General.
The discussions prioritised bilateral trade and community welfare. Both diplomats agreed to activate trade sections within their respective consulates to explore untapped economic opportunities.
“Through enhanced trade collaboration, we can ensure mutual benefits for our nations,” noted Hussain Muhammad.
The consuls also reviewed consular services, including streamlined visa procedures, passport issuance, and identity cards. Md. Rashedujjaman praised the Pakistani consulate for its efficient service delivery, calling it exemplary.
Both sides emphasised the importance of community outreach, agreeing to work on joint initiatives to better serve their expatriates in the UAE.
Bangladesh’s simplified visa process for Pakistanis
In a significant development, Bangladesh has introduced an online visa application system for Pakistani citizens. The streamlined process removes physical inspections on Pakistani consignments and abolishes additional security checks at Dhaka airport, easing travel and trade between the two nations.
These measures, aimed at strengthening ties, are expected to boost commerce and foster greater trust between Pakistan and Bangladesh.
Diplomatic momentum from D-8 Summit
The recent meetings in the UAE follow a series of diplomatic gains, including discussions at the D-8 summit in Cairo. Leaders from both countries explored expanding trade in sectors such as chemicals, IT, leather goods, and cement clinkers.
A direct maritime link between Karachi and Chittagong was another highlight, enabling the shipment of 25,000 tonnes of Pakistani sugar to Bangladesh. This initiative has paved the way for further economic collaboration.